American Legion Post 452 in Mullica Hill will host the Veterans Day 5K Run/1 Mile Walk on Saturday, Nov. 9, with pre-registration at the post itself at 8 a.m.
Pre-registration is also taking place at runsignup.com, where individuals can sign up and pay a fee for either the walk or run. Veterans, active military members and youth ages 17 and under get a discount for the event, and those who pre-register online will receive a free T-shirt. Proceeds from the event will benefit the post itself.
“This event is open to runners, joggers, walkers, kids of all ages – and dogs are always welcome,” said post Adjutant Jack Sommer. “The American Legion Post 452 is an important contributor to our community and provides resources and assistance to veterans and active military.”
The run will officially begin at 9 a.m. at the post and runners will go across town before eventually ending up back at the starting point. After the race, an awards ceremony will recognize the top-performing competitors. The post is seeking sponsors for the event.
“Sponsorships also help to defray the cost of organizing the event,” Sommer explained. “Funds received from sponsorships are used to purchase T-shirts for registered race participants and volunteers, finishing medals for winners of each age/gender category, and complimentary drinks and snacks for participants.”
There are three levels of sponsorship – bronze, silver and gold – and each is priced differently. To become a sponsor, reach out to the race director by email at VeteransRunInfo@gmail.com.
Participants can also purchase Friends of the American Legion shirts that will feature their names and the name of a veteran or active-duty military member.
“Year to date,” Sommer noted, “the legion has donated almost $10,000 to 25 charities, including Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Hoagies 4 Hope, Boys State, the G2 Benefit Foundation, the ALS Association, Homes For Our Troops, People for People, Harrison Township police and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.”